Barking Aussie

Question
Our 14 month old Aussie has always barked at my kids when they are in our pool or are on the trampoline.  It's an insane crazy obsessed bark and he just won't stop.   I thought ignoring him would work, but our neighbor complained.   He's ruining any outdoor play time for my kids.

I don't want to find him a new home, but if I can't stop this behavior I'm not sure what else to do!

Can you help?

Answer
Why can't you leave him indoors when there's that much activity?  It's really not fair to the dog to have kids doing the very behaviors that arouse herding type dogs, and expect him not to react at all.  The Aussie breed standard says "strong herding and guarding" instincts, and so because of that, these are dogs that are aroused by noise and motion.  Ignoring does not work, since they are hard-wired to do this, although there are Aussies from some lines that work more quietly than others.  A really good positive trainer or behaviorist could work with you, over time, to help modify the behavior, but if you haven't the time or funds for that, there is another option.  You could try a no bark collar (NOT the electronic kind).  Premier makes a spray collar that emits a short burst of citronella when the dog barks.  Many dogs are kept silent this way, but you need to understand that some dogs (my own Aussie included) would simply be smart enough to "empty the canister" quickly, rendering the collar useless.  If you absolutely cannot keep this dog, please try to work with ARPH, Inc. to find him a new home.  That way, he will, hopefully, go to someone who understands the Aussie breed - you don't want him to just keep losing homes because he's, well, an Aussie:-)) Through this experience, you might well become an advocate for this breed, which is not always well suited for pet homes - these are working dogs, although they are wonderful companions, too, for those who can provide them the attention and a "job" to do.  Speaking of that, you might want to get your kids off the trampoline (they're dangerous anyway) and in to an agility or obedience class with the dog!  Dog sports are a lifetime activity, while the trampoline is mostly restricted to childhood:-)